Chapter 6: Learning take place in social interaction

2. What theories from second language acquisition can you use to persuade teachers that group work really DOES lead to better language learning and is not just a messy waste of time? Put together a very persuasive speech.

According to the text, some of the theories that support that work group lead to better language learning say that social interaction is critical for effective learning language learning.
The theory says that people develop a second language when they feel good about themselves and about their relationships with those around them, so we can say that group activities are ideal because it increases language practice opportunities, improves the quality of student talk, helps individualize instruction, promotes a positive affective climate, motivates learners.
Besides, if teachers use collaborative group work, individual students have more chances to try out the language they were learning. And when students work in small groups , they take risks and try out more advanced structures and vocabulary than when they have to speak for the whole class, grouping provide students with choice and makes assignments more meaningful.